Sabbath
QUARTERLY
School
Lesson
,
No. 87
Mountain View, Cal., January, 1917
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Lessons on the Book of
•
SENIOR DIVISION
First Quarter, January to March, 1917
Acts
SABBATH SCHOOL GOALS
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4I
1
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Lessons
on
the
Book
of
Acts
SENIOR DIVISION
FIRST QUARTER
•
1917
Introductory Note
As we begin the third quarter's lessons on the book of
Acts, it will be helpful to take a brief survey of this remark-
able book.
1. The writer of the book is Luke. Compare Acts 1: 1
with Luke 1: 1-4.
p. It
is supposed to have been written about A. D. 65.
3.
The time covered is about thirty-three years, or about
the length of time that Christ was upon earth.
4.
The important geographical centers are the three cities,
Jerusalem, Antioch, and Rome. Jerusalem, was the center of
Judaism, Rome of gentile
-
dom, and Antioch, it seems, the
center of gentile Christianity. It will be helpful to locate
these places on the map.
5.
In the first section of the book, chapters 1-12, the apostle
Peter seems to be the most important character, beginning
especially at Pentecost. In the remainder of the book, the
leading character is the apostle Paul. Peter's message seemed
to be more especially to the Jews, while Paul's was to the
gentiles.
6.
Throughout the record of chapters 13-20 Paul is at lib-
erty, and during this time made three missionary tours, and
raised up and established a number of churches. From chap-
ters 21-28 he is in bonds.
The book of Acts, as one writer says, "records the advent
and the activities of the Holy Spirit."
The importance of this quarter's lessons is emphasized
when we consider that two of the wonderful missionary tours
of the apostle Paul are to be studied. We should constantly
keep in mind that the great work which is here recorded was
done in the years immediately following Pentecost, or the
time of the "former rain." Then the gospel was carried to
all the world in one short generation (Col. 1: 23). Under the
ministration of the Spirit in the "latter rain" the gospel of
the last message will again be carried to all the world in one
generation.
4
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
Lesson 1 — The Council at Jerusalem
JANUARY 6, 1917
DAILY STUDY OUTLINE
Sabbath
Read the lesson scripture.
Sunday
Delegates sent to settle controversy
in Jerusalem; visiting believers....Ques. 1-4
"Acts of the Apostles," P1).1_85-190.
Monday
Cause of contention; meeting the
apostles and elders
Ques. 5, 6
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 190-192.
Tuesday
Peter reasoning with them
Ques. 7-11
"Acts of the Apostles,"
pp.
192-194.
Wednesday ..Paul and Barnabas speaking
Ques. 12-16
Thursday ...Lessons for u.
,
.
Friday
Review the lesson.
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Acts 15: 1-21.
MEMORY VERSE: "We believe that through the grace of the
Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they." Acts
15: 11.
The Narrative
1.
Who visited Antioch while Paul and Barnabas were
there? From what place did they come? What did they
teach? Acts 15: 1. Note 1.
2.
What was the attitude of Paul and Barnabas in
reference to what was taught? What did the brethren
finally decide to do? Verse 2. Note 2.
3.
Through what region did they pass on their way
to Jerusalem? What did they declare? What was the
effect of their message on the believers? Verse 3.
4.
On meeting the church at Jerusalem, what did the
apostles do? Verse 4.
5.
Who offered objections? What did they teach?
Verse 5. Note 3.
6.
In view of the contention, what did the apostles and
the elders do? Verse 6. Note 4.
7.
What spirit characterized the meeting in the be-
ginning? Who finally spoke? To what did he refer?
Verse 7.
e
8.
What gift had been bestowed upon the believing
gentiles? Verse 8. Note 5.
9.
How are all regarded by the Lord? How is the
heart purified? Verse 9.
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
5
10.
What question did Peter put to the Judaizing teach-
ers? Verse 10. Note 6.
11.
What did Peter set forth as the only means of sal-
vation? Verse 11.
12.
Who then spoke to the council? What experience
did they rehearse? -Verse 12.
13.
Who next spoke to the assembly? Verse 13.
Note 7.
14.
To whose speech did James refer? Memorize the
quotation from the prophet. Verses 14-18. Note 8.
15.
What sentence did James give concerning the mat-
ter? What were they to write to all the churches?
Verses 19, 20.
16.
Why was it thought unnecessary to give all the
details? Verse 21.
Lessons for Us
1.
The question at Jerusalem involved the whole ques-
tion of salvation,— whether we have something to do
to win salvation, or whether it is a free gift.
2.
We should lay perplexing questions involving prin-
ciple before the brethren for counsel. Verse 2.
3.
Delegates were chosen to represent the various,
churches, and the decisions arrived at were to be re-
spected by all. Note 9.
4.
We should report what the Lord is doing in different
fields, and how churches are being established through
the gospel message. Verse 3.
5.
The fact that James was the presiding officer would
indicate that Peter did not understand that he was a pope
and head of all the churches. Verse 13.
Notes
1.
This council was held at a time between the first and
second missionary tours of the apostle Paul in Asia Minor.
While there is a difference of opinion as to the year, it prob-
ably was about A. D. 48.
2.
The history of the church records difficulties, contro-
versies, and corruptions. There was a Judas among the
apostles, and Ananias and Sapphira in the church following
Pentecost, the misunderstandings and murmurings of the Gre-
cians and Hebrews, etc. But none of these things indicate that
6
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
the gospel preached was not the truth. It is worthy of note
that these "false brethren" then found their field of activities
in the church, creating dissension and confusion, instead of
pushing out into a lost world, bringing souls to Christ and
establishing a work of their own. The work of the "false
brethren" was to destroy and not build up. It is the same now
as in the early church.
3.
"The Pharisees had been the companions of St. Paul's
younger days. Death had made many changes in the course
of fifteen years; but some must have been there who had
studied with him 'at the feet of Gamaliel.' Their opposition
was doubtless embittered by remembering what he had been
before his conversion."—"Life and Epistles of the Apostle
Paul," Conybeare and Howson, People's Edition, page 189.
4.
"Far more was involved than any mere opposition, how-
ever factious, to individual missionaries, or than the severity
of any conditions imposed on individual converts. The ques-
tion of liberty or bondage for all future ages was to be de-
cided; and a convention of the whole church at Jerusalem was
evidently called for."—
Id.,
page 189.
5.
"Peter related the plain interpretation of these words,
which was given him almost immediately in his summons to
go to the centurion and instruct him in the faith of Christ.
This message showed that God was no respecter of persons,
but accepted and acknowledged all who feared Him. Peter
told of his astonishment when, in speaking the words of truth
to those assembled at the home of Cornelius, he witnessed the
Holy Spirit taking possession of his hearers, gentiles as well
as Jews."—"The Acts of the Apostles," page 193.
6.
"This yoke was not the law of Ten Commandments, as
some who oppose the binding claims of the law assert; Peter
here referred to the law of ceremonies, which was made null
and void by the crucifixion of Christ."—
Id.,
page 194.
7.
"But the opinion of another speaker still remained to be
given. This was James, the brother of the Lord, who, from
the austere sanctity of his character, was commonly called,
both by Jews and Christians, 'James the Just.' No judgment
could have such weight with the Judaizing party as his. Not
only in the vehement language in which he denounced the sins
of the age, but even in garb and appearance, he resembled
John the Baptist, or one of the older prophets, rather than
the other apostles of the new dispensation."—"Life and Epis-
tles of St. Paul," Conybeare and Howson, pages 191, 192.
8.
This allusion to the rebuilding of the house of David that
"is fallen,
"
" as spoken by Amos, is especially interesting, show-
ing, as it does, that the true house of David, or the true Is-
rael, are those of all nations who become one with Christ by
faith. See Gal. 3: 29; Eph. 2: 11-13; Hosea 2: 23; Rom. 9:
25, 26.
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
9. "The entire body of Christians was not called to vote
upon the question. The 'apostles and elders,' men of influence
and judgment, framed and issued the decree, which was there-
upon generally accepted by the Christian churches. Not all,
however, were pleased with the decision; there was a faction
of ambitious and self-confident brethren who disagreed with it.
These men assumed to engage in the work on their own re-
sponsibility. They indulged in much murmuring and fault-
finding, proposing new plans, and seeking to pull down the
work of the men whom God had ordained to teach the gospel
message. From the first the church has had such obstacles
to meet, and ever will have till the close of time."—"The Acts
of the Apostles," pages 196, 197.
Lesson 2 — The Council at Jerusalem
(coNcLuDED)
JANUARY 13, 1917
DAILY STUDY OUTLINE
Sabbath
Read the lesson scripture.
Sunday
Decision of the council
Ques. 1, 2
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 195-200.
Monday
Judas and Silas at Antioch
Ques. 3-0
Tuesday
Paul and Barnabas preaching at
Antioch; contention between Paul
and Barnabas
Ques. 7-10
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 201, 202.
Wednesday ..Paul and Silas visiting the churches
in Syria and Cilicia
(Ines. 11, 12
Thursday ...Lessons for us.
Friday
Review the lesson.
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Acts 15: 22-41.
MEMORY VERSE:
"Go ye into all the world, and preach the
gospel to every creature." Mark 16: 15.
The Narrative
1.
The controversy being settled, what did the council
decide to do? Who was chosen to accompany Paul and
Barnabas? Acts 15: 22. Note 1.
2.
What was sent by these brethren? What was the
substance of the letter? Verses 23-29. Note 2.
3.
How was the message received by the church?
Verses 30, 31.
4.
What high position did Judas and Silas have in
the church? What did they do? Verse 32.
8
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
5.
Having delivered their message, what did these
brethren do? Verse 33.
6.
Who remained behind? What did they do? Verses
34, 35. Note 3.
7.
After remaining in Antioch for a time, what did
Paul propose to his companion in labor? Verse 36.
Note 4.
8.
What did Barnabas propose to do at this time?
Verse 37.
9.
What view did Paul take of this matter? Why?
Verse 38.
10.
What was the result of this contention? Verse 39.
Note 5.
11.
Whom did Paul choose as his companion in his sec-
ond missionary tour? Verse 40. Note 6.
12.
Where did they go? What did they do? Verse 41.
Lessons for Us
1.
We should receive the news from the council of God's
people with joy. Verse 31.
2.
The presiding presence of the Holy Spirit should
be recognized in the deliberations of the church. "It
seemed good to the
Holy Ghost,
and to
us,"-
the Holy
Spirit first. Verse 28.
3.
It is well at times to revisit churches which have
been established and see how they do.
4.
The account of Paul's second missionary journey is
covered in Acts 15: 36 to 18: 22.
5.
Those leading out in the work may conscientiously
differ in judgment. Acts 15: 39.
Notes
1. "They carried with them the decree which was to give
peace to the consciences that had been troubled by the
Judaizing agitators; and the two companions, Judas and
Silas, who traveled with them, were empowered to accredit
their commission and character. It seems also that Mark
was another companion of Paul and Barnabas on this jour-
ney; for the last time we had occasion to mention his name
was when he withdrew 'from Pamphylia to Jerusalem (page
144), and presently we see him once more with his kinsman
at Antioch."-Acts 15: 37. "Life and Epistles of the Apostle
Paul," Conybeare and Howson, page 196.
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
9
2.
Notice the expression in verse 28: "It seemed good to
the Holy Ghost, and to us." The Holy Spirit is recognized
as the One who presided in the council, and equally respon-
sible in formulating the decrees. The presiding presence
of this third person of the Godhead in our assemblies and
councils is too often overlooked.
3.
"These two disciples remained some short time at An-
tioch. They were possessed of that power of 'prophecy' which
was one of the forms in which the Holy Spirit made His
presence known; 'and the Syrian Christians were 'exhorted
and confirmed' by the exercise of this miraculous gift. The
minds of all were in great tranquillity when the time came
for the return of these messengers 'to the apostles' at Jeru-
salem. Silas, however, either remained at Antioch, or soon
came back thither. He was destined, as we shall see, to be-
come the companion of St. Paul, and to be at the beginning
of the second missionary journey what Barnabas had been
at the beginning of the first."—
Id.,
pages 197, 198.
4.
Gospel workers may learn a lesson from the watchful-
ness of the apostle Paul over those whom he had brought
to Christ through his ministry. Having seen the baneful
fruit of apostasy, and the distracting influence of false
teachers, who, not by open antagonism, but rather by clan-
destine intrigue, came spying around the church to pull down
what he by hard labor had built up, he bent all his energies
to save the flock from being deceived. He warned "every
one night and day with tears" in order that he might "present
every man perfect in Christ Jesus."
5.
"How could Paul consent to take with him a companion
who would really prove an embarrassment and a hindrance?
Such a task as that of spreading the gospel of God in a hostile
world needs a resolute will and an undaunted courage. And the
work is too sacred to be put in jeopardy by any experiments.
Mark had been tried once and found wanting. . . . And
Barnabas would not be without strong arguments to defend
the justice of his claims. It was hard to expect him to resign
his interest in one who had cost him much anxiety and many
prayers. His dearest wish was to see his young kinsman
approving himself as a missionary of Christ."—
Id.,
page 217.
6.
We see here the great apostle with Silas as his compan-
ion starting on his second great missionary journey, begin-
ning about A. D. 51 and continuing till about A. D. 54.
This second tour seems to have originated in a desire ex-
pressed to Barnabas, that they should revisit all the cities
where they had preached the gospel, and founded churches.
10
a
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
Les'son
3
- Paul and Silas at Derbe, Lystra,
and Philippi
JANUARY 20, 1917
DAILY STUDY OUTLINE
Sabbath
Read the lesson scripture.
Sunday
Paul chooses Timothy
Ques. 1-3
"Acts of the Apostles," pp• 203-205.
Monday
Paul and Timothy preaching in the
cities
Ques. 4-s
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 206-210.
Tuesday
Paul has a vision
Ques. 9-12
"Acts of the Apostles,"
pp•
211, 212.
Wednesday ..Conversicin of Lydia
Ques. 13, 14
Thursday ...Lessons for us.
Friday
Review the lesson.
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Acts 16: 1-15.
MEMORY VERSE: "Come over into Macedonia, and help us."
Acts 16: 9.
The Narrative
•
1.
What young man did Paul find at Lystra? What
is said concerning his parentage? Acts 16: 1.
2.
What report was given of him by the brethren?
Verse 2. Note 1.
3.
What requirement did Paul make concerning Timo-
thy? Why did he do this? Verse 3. Note 2.
4.
What did the apostles do as they went through the
cities? Verse 4.
5.
How were the churches affected? Verse 5.
6.
What regions are mentioned as being visited by
the apostle? How is the presence of the Holy. Spirit in-
dicated? Verse 6.
7.
Being restrained by the Spirit from preacbing the
gospel in Asia, what further ,evidence is given of the
Spirit's guidance? Verse 7. Note 3.
8., To what place did they finally come? Verse 8.
9.
What appeared to Paul in the night seasons?
Verse 9.
10.
What did they conclude from the vision? Verse 10.
11.
What places did they touch in sailing to Mace-
donia? Verses 11, 12. Note 4,
12.
What did they do on the Sabbath? Verse 13.
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
11
13.
What woman is especially mentioned as among the
first to accept the gospel? Verse 14.
14.
How is her thorough conversion indicated? Verse
15.
Note 5.
Lessons for Us
1.
The youth should be taught the Scriptures from a
.child, as Timothy was. •2 Tim. 1: 3-5; 3: 14, 15. Note 6.
2.
Where no principle of right is at stake it is wise to
give consideration to what others may think. Paul cir-
cumcised Timothy "because of the Jews that were in
those parts." Acts 16: 3, A. R. V.
3.
We should pray for, and expect the guidance of, the
Holy Spirit in our work. Verses 7-9.
4.
We may win by being found where "prayer was wont
to be made." Verse 13.
Notes
1.
Timothy was doubtless one who accepted the gospel
under the labors of Paul on his first missionary tour. That he
was a genuine convert is evidenced by the good report which
the church gave of him.
2.
"The expression in the original means, 'he was a born
Greek.' The most natural inference is, that his father was
living, and most probably not a proselyte of righteousness,
if a proselyte at all."—"Life and Epistles of the Apostle
Paul," Conybeare and Howson, page 229, note.
"As a precautionary measure, Paul wisely advised Timothy
to be circumcised — not that God required it, but in order to
remove from the minds of the Jews that which might be an
objection to Timothy's miriistration."—"The Acts of the
•
Apostles," page 204.
3.
"Here again we are taught a new and vital lesson. The
Holy Spirit is shown to us in another of His acts of adminis-
tration: the double guidance of the apostle and his companion;
on the one hand
prohibition and restraint,
on the other
per-
mission and constraint.
They are forbidden in one direction,
invited in another; one way the Spirit says, 'Go not;' the
other He calls, `Come'— not into Bithynia, where they assayed
to go, but into Macedonia, where He had a mission for them
to accomplish in introducing the gospel into Europe.""The
Acts of the Holy Spirit," pages 120, 121.
4.
In verses 4, 6, 7, Luke, the writer of the Acts, speaks of
Paul and those who were with him in the third person, "They
went through the cities," "When they were come." This would
indicate that Luke was not one of the company. In verse 11,
he changes to the first person,
"We came
with a straight
12
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
course," etc., which would indicate that he was one of the
company, having evidently joined Paul and Silas at Troas.
5.
"Lydia, being convinced that Jesus was the Messiah, and
having made a profession of her faith, was forthwith baptized.
The place of her baptism was doubtless the stream which
flowed by the
proseucha
[place of prayer]."—"Life and Epis-
tles of the Apostle Paul," Conybeare and Howson, page 255,
People's Edition.
6.
"From a child, Timothy knew the Scriptures; and this
knowledge was a safeguard to him against the evil influences
surrounding him, and the temptation to choose pleasure and
selfish gratification before duty. Such a safeguard all our
children need; and it should be a part of the work of parents
and of Christ's ambassadors to see that the children are
properly instructed in the word of God."—"Testimonies for
the Church," volume 4, page 398.
Lesson
4 —
Paul and Silas in Prison
JANUARY 27, 1917
DAILY STUDY
.
OUTLINE
Sabbath
Read the lesson scripture.
Sunday
Casting out the evil spirit
Ques. 1-3
Monday
Paul and Silas before the magis-
trates
Ques. 9-7
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 212-215.
Tuesday
Prison doors opened; conversion of
the jailer and his house
• Ques. 8-13
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 215-220.
Wednesday ..Paul and Silas given their freedom
Ques. 14-1S
Thursday ...Lessons for us.
Friday
Review the lesson.
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Acts 16: 16-40.
MEMORY VERSE: "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou
shalt be saved." Acts 16: 31.
The Narrative
1.
In what way did the enemy seek to hinder the work
of the apostles at Philippi? Acts 16: 16, 17. Note 1.
2.
How did Paul rebuke the wicked spirit? What was
the result? Verse 18. Note 2.
3.
What did the owners of the slave girl do to Paul
and Silas? What charge did they make against them?
Verses 19-21.
4.
Who joined with them in the attack against Paul
and Silas? What did the magistrates do? Verse 22.
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
13
5.
What did they do to the apostles? What charge
was given the jailer? Verse 23.
6.
In view of the charge given him, what did the jailer
do? Verse 24. Note 3.
7.
Though cruelly treated, what did Paul and Silas do?
Who heard them? What time of night was it? Verse 25.
Note 4.
8.
How was the power of God manifested? What was
the effect of the earthquake? How was the jailer af-
fected? Verses 26, 27. Note 5.
9.
What did Paul say to him? Verse 28.
10.
What did the jailer do? What great question did
he ask the apostles? Verses 29, 30. Note 6.
11.
By what words was the jailer's mind directed to
the Saviour? Verse 31.
12.
To whom did they speak the word of God? Who
believed besides the jailer? What gospel ordinance was
administered? Verses 32, 33.
13.
What did the gospel bring into their hearts?
Verse 34.
14.
What request did the magistrates make? Verses
35, 36.
15.
What reply did Paul make to this request? Verse
37. Note 7.
16.
How did his request affect the rulers? Verse 38.
17.
What did they do? Verse 39.
18.
When released from prison, where did the apostles
go? Verse 40.
Lessons for Us
1.
The things that sometimes seem to hinder the work
are really advancing it. Phil. 1: 12.
2.
It is our privilege to rejoice in the Lord under the
most unfavorable circumstance. Acts 16: 25.
3.
Prayer brings deliverance to those who believe.
4.
The power which loosens "every one's bands" is the
same that caused the earth to quake.
5.
Though suffering persecution and trial, we can com-
fort others. Verse 40.
6.
It is sometimes proper to take advantage of our
citizenship in time of persecution. Verse 37. Note 8.
14
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
Notes
1.
"This woman was a special agent of Satan, and had
brought to her masters much gain by soothsaying. Her in-
fluence had helped to strengthen idolatry. Satan knew that
his kingdom was being invaded, and he resorted to this means
of opposing the work of God, hoping to mingle his sophistry
with the truths taught by those who were proclaiming the
gospel message."—"The Acts of the Apostles," page 212.
2.
The rebuking and subjugating of the demoniacal spirit
with which this woman was possessed was a manifestation
of the power of the gospel over the forces of evil. The words
of the Saviour are: "Behold, I give unto you power to tread
on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the
enemy
,
: and nothing shall by any means hurt you." Luke
10: 19. This same power should attend the gospel now.
3.
"The jailer fulfilled the directions of the magistrates
with rigorous and conscientious cruelty. Not content with
placing the apostles among such other offenders against the
law as were in custody at Philippi, he 'thrust them into the
inner prison,' and then forced their limbs, lacerated as they
were, and bee
ding from the rod, into a painful and con-
strained posture, by means of an instrument employed to
confine and torture the bodies of the worst malefactors."--
"Life and Epistles of the Apostle Paul," Conybeare and
Howson, page 262.
4.
These inner prisons of the ancient world were such as
that into which Jeremiah was let down with cords, and
where he sank "in the mire." Jer. 38: 6. In these damp,
dark, pestilential cells the chains are said to have rusted on
the limbs of the prisoners. The legs, arms, and neck of
offenders were confined and stretched in the stocks, produc-
ing excruciating torture. In such a place, their bodies lacer-
ated and bleeding, the apostles were heard singing a duet
of praise and thanksgiving to God. No murmuring or com-
plaining. What a beautiful' esson of trust in God is here
presented!
5.
"The earthquake was not a mere coincidence. There
was more here. Earthquakes do not throw all bolted doors
open, and unclasp fetters and chains. God was here. He
was breaking a way for His gospel to the heart of heathen-
dom. But His mercy followed close in the heavy steps of
His power. The jailer, like a true Roman, was about to
execute himself for the loss of his prisoners, as he supposed.
Paul arrests the attempt. The marvelous story of his con-
version follows."—"Introduction to the Book of Acts," Stif-
ler, pages 157, 158.
6.
"Philippi is famous in the annals of suicide. Here
Cassius, unable to survive defeat, covered his face in the
empty tent, and ordered his freedmen to strike the blow. His
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
15
messenger Titinius held it to be a 'Roman's part' to follow
the stern example. Here Brutus bade adieu to his friends,
exclaiming, 'Certainly we must fly, yet not with feet, but
with the hands;' and many, whose names have never' reached
us, ended their last struggle for the republic by self-inflicted
death. Here, too, another despairing man would have com-
mitted the same crime, had not his hand been arrested by
an apostle's voice. Instead of a sudden and hopeless death,
the jailer received at the hands of his prisoner the gift both
of temporal and spiritual life."—"Life and Epistles of -the
Apostle Paul," Conybeare and Howson, pages 265, 266.
7.
The law of Rome made it a crime to scourge a Roman
citizen or deprive him of liberty without a fair trial. The
apostles, knowing this, stood upon their rights as citizens.
8.
"In Paul's time, Roman citizenship conferred freedom
from, corporal punishment, the right of appeal to the em-
peror against the sentences of magistrates, the right to hold
office, and exemption from direct taxation."—"Te'achers'
Testament," Nelson, note.
Lesson
5
— Paul at Thessalonica and Berea
FEBRUARY 3, 1917
DAILY STUDY OUTLINE
Sabbath
Read the lesson scripture.
,
Sunday
Paul preaching at Thessalonica
Ques. 1'4
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 221-229.
Monday
The effect of the gospel on the un-
believing Jews
Rues
:
5-7
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 229, 230.
,
Tuesday
Paul and Silas in Berea
Ques. 8-10
Wednesday .. Paul goes to Athens
Qum 11, 12
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 231-233.
Thursday ... Lessons for us.
Friday
Review the lesson.
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Acts 17: 1-15.
MEMORY VERSE: "They received the word with all readi-
ness of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily." Acts 17: 11.
The Narrative
1.
What seaport of Macedonia was next visited by
Paul and those laboring with him? Acts 17: 1. Note 1.
2.
What custom did Paul follow here? Out of what
did he reason? Verse 2. Note 2.
3.
What great truth did he allege from the Scriptures?
Verse 3. Note 3.
4.
What was the result of his preaching the Word?
Verse 4.
16
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
5.
How did the success of the apostles affect the un-
believing Jews? What did they do? Verse 5.
6.
With what did the mob charge the apostles?
Verses 6-8.
7.
What disposition was finally made of them?
Verse 9.
8.
To what place did the brethren send Paul and Silas?
On arriving at Berea, what did they do? Verse 10.
9.
What was the attitude of the Bereans toward the
Word which was spoken to them? Verse 11. Note 4.
10.
How did the enemy seek to hinder the work at
Berea? Verse 13.
11.
What steps did the brethren take to protect Paul?
Who remained behind to instruct further the believers?
Verse 14.
12.
To what city was Paul brought? What message
did he send to Silas and Timothy? Verse 15.
Lessons for Us
1.
Power attends the word of God when spoken in
faith. 1 Thess. 1: 5.
2.
Much trial and affliction are sometimes experienced
in establishing the work of the gospel. 1 Thess. 1: 6; 2: 2.
3.
Those who are Christians should give the light to
others. 1 Thess. 1: 7, 8. Note 5.
4.
Those who preach the gospel may sometimes be
looked upon as traitors. This was involved in the charge
that the apostles claimed another king than Csar.
Acts 17: 7.
5.
It is sometimes wise when persecution is manifested
in one place to go quietly to another. Verse 10.
6.
The Word is the standard by which to test what is
being taught. Verses 11, 12.
Notes
1. "Thessalonica.- A city of Macedonia, now called Sa-
lonica."-"Twentieth Century Dictionary."
Notice the words, "they had passed." (Compare Acts 17:
1 and 16: 10-13, 16, 17.) It is evident from this that Luke
is not with them and writes as a historian and not as an
eyewitness. This perhaps explains why the narrative of
events at Thessalonica is quite general, while that of Philippi
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
17
is more in detail. Luke does not appear to be with Paul
again until the time of his second visit to Macedonia on his
third missionary tour. See Acts 20: 4-6. Timotheus howelier
seems to have rejoined Paul and Silas either at Thessalonica
or Berea.
2.
While it might be inferred from Paul's statement that
he preached "three Sabbath days," that his stay was limited
to this time, many Bible writers think that he remained a
longer time.
3.
Paul, as a great gospel preacher, did not dwell upon the
social and ethical questions of his time, but proclaimed with
power the vital truth of Christianity from the Scriptures.
He preached in verity the word of God.
4.
"The length of St. Paul's stay in the city is quite un-
certain. From the fact that the Bereans were occupied
'daily'
in searching the Scriptures for arguments to establish or
confute the apostle's doctrine, we conclude that he remained
there several days at least. From his own assertion in his
first letter to the Thessalonians, that, at the time when he
had been recently taken away from them, he was very anx-
ious, and used every effort to revisit them, we cannot doubt
that he lingered as long as possible in the neighborhood of
Thessalonica."—"Life and Epistles of the Apostle Paul,"
Conybeare and Howson, page 294.
5.
Thessalonica was a seaport of great commercial impor-
tance at that time. As news from there would be carried
throughout a wide, area, it is quite probable that the disorderly
demonstrations, as well as the miraculous demonstration in
the deliverance of Paul and Silas, were very widely known.
Lesson 6 — Paul at Athens
FEBRUARY 10, 1917
DAILY
.
, STUDY OUTLINE
Sabbath
Read the lesson scripture.
Sunday
Paul in the synagogue at Athens
Ques. 1-3
Monday
Questioned by the philosophers of
Athens
Ques. 4-0
"Acts of the Apostles," pp: 234-236.
Tuesday
Paul's sermon on Mars' Hill
Ques.
7-13
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 237-242.
Wednesday .. Closing his labors at Athens
Ques. 14-10
Thursday ...Lessons for us.
Friday
Review the lesson.
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Acts 17: 16-34.
MEMORY VERSE: "He giveth to all life, and breath, and all
things." Acts 17: 25.
18
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
The Narrative
1.
What stirred the spirit of Paul while he was wait-
ing in Athens for Silas and Timothy? How did the idola-
try of the people affect him? Acts 17: 16. Note 1.
•
2.
What did he do? Verse 17.
3.
As he continued his daily disputations, whose at-
tention was attracted by his labors? How did these
philosophers regard him? What view did they take of
his teaching? Verse 18. Note 2.
4.
To what place did they take him? For what pur-
pose? Verse 19. Note 3.
5.
What reason did they assign for their inquiry con-
cerning the new doctrine? Verse 20.
6.
What was the chief occupation of the Athenians?
Verse 21.
7.
With what statement did Paul begin his discourse
on Mars' Hill? Verses 22, 23. Note 4.
8.
What great fundamental truth did he set forth in
unfolding to them the unknown God? What did he say
of God's dwelling place? Verse 24.
9.
How did he say God could not be worshiped?
Verse 25.
10.
What is God's purpose concerning the nations?
What has He appointed? Why has He done this? Verses
26, 27.
11.
What did he say concerning God's nearness to us?
Verse 28. Note 5.
12.
By what statement did he show the foolishness of
idol worship? Verse 29. Compare Isa. 45: 20, 21.
13.
What does Paul call the wisdom of the world?
What are all men commanded to do ? Acts 17: 30. Com-
pare 1 Cor. 1: 19-25.
14.
In view of what solemn event did the apostle ap-
peal to the Athenians to repent? How will God judge
the world? By whom? Acts 17: 31.
15.
What attitude did the philosophers assume toward
the teaching of Paul? Verse 32. Compare chapter
24: 25.
16.
What did Paul do? Whom did he leave behind as
believers? Acts 17: 33, 34. Note 6.
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
19
Lessons for Us
1.
We may be well versed in the wisdom of this world
and not knoW the true God. Verse 23.
2.
The gospel must be made known to the learned as
well as the unlearned. Verse 19.
3.
The Lord is very near to all, even to those who may
not know Him. Verses 27, 28.
4.
We are responsible for the light that has come to
us. Verse 30.
5.
Later Paul at Corinth said he "determined not to
know anything among you, save Jesus Christ, and Him
crucified." 1 Cor. 2: 2. Does this not imply that his
course at Athens in meeting logic with logic, and philoso-
phy with philosophy, was not the wisest way?
6.
Honest souls may be found among those who mock.
Acts 17: 34. Note 7.
Notes
1.
The city of Athens was famed for its architecture and
art, and for the education and intelligence of its people. But
it was nevertheless shrouded in heathenism. Statues of gods
and deified heroes were to be seen in every direction. Temples
and sanctuaries with their altars and filled with idols were
on every hand. There were the sculptured forms of Minerva,
Jupiter, Apollo, and a sanctuary to Bacchus. There were
statues of the great men of Athens, such as Solon and Demos-
thenes. There were deified heroes of mythology. "Thus,
every god in Olympus found a place in the Agora. But the
religiousness of the Athenians went even further. For every
public place and building was likewise a sanctuary. The
Record House was a temple of the mother of the gods. The
Council House held statues of Apollo and Jupiter, with an
altar of Vesta. The theater at the base of the Acropolis,
into which the Athenians crowded to hear the words of their
great tragedians, was consecrated to Bacchus." But with
all this "vast composition of architecture and sculpture,
dedicated• to the national glory and to the worship of the
gods," the true God was to them unknown. What a com-
mentary on the worthlessness of an education outside of
Christ!
2.
"Among those who encountered Paul in the market place
were 'certain philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Sto-
ics;' but they, and all others who came in contact with him,
soon saw that he had a store of knowledge even greater than
their own. His intellectual power commanded the respect
of the learned; while his earnest, logical reasoning and the
20
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
power of his oratory held the attention of all in the audience.
His hearers recognized the fact that he was no novice, but
was able to meet all classes with convincing arguments in
support of the doctrines he taught. Thus the apostle stood
undaunted, meeting his opposers on their own ground, match-
ing logic with logic, philosophy with philosophy, eloquence
with eloquence."—"The Acts of the Apostles," pages 235, 236.
•
3.
Areopagus was "a rocky eminence at Athens, near the
Acropolis, upon which a sovereign criminal court held its
sittings. The judges were called Areopagites, and through
a long period were greatly respected." ("Twentieth Cen-
tury Dictionary.")
4.
The word "superstitious" in this text seems an unfor-
tunate translation. The Revised Version gives "religious."
Conybeare and Howson translates the text, "I bear witness
to your carefulness in religion," and in a footnote adds, "The
mistranslation of this verse in the Authorized Version is much
to be regretted, because it entirely destroys the graceful
courtesy of Paul's opening address, and represents him as
beginning his speech by offending his audience."
5.
"The quotation [in this verse] is from Aratus, a Greek
poet, who was a native of Cilicia; a circumstance which
would, perhaps, account for St. Paul's familiarity with his
writings."—"Life and Epistles of the Apostle Paul," Cony-
beare and Howson, page 328, note.
6.
Hales, in his chronology, speaking concerning the dark-
ening of the sun at the cross, makes the following interest-
ing statement concerning Dionysius; assuming that it is the
same Dionysius: "This obscuration of the sun must have been
preternatural, in its extent, duration, and opposition of the
moon at full to the sun. It was observed at Heliopolis, in
Egypt, by Dionysius, the Areopagite, afterwards the illus-
trious convert of Paul at Athens (Acts 17: 34), who, in a
letter to the martyr Polycarp, describes his own and his
companion's — the sophist Apollophanes'— astonishment at
the phenomenon, when they saw the darkness commence at the
eastern limb of the sun, and proceed to the western, till the
whole was eclipsed; and then backward from the western to
the eastern, till his light was fully restored; which they at-
tributed to the miraculous passage of the moon across the
sun's disk. Apollophanes exclaimed, as if divining the cause,
`These, 0 good Dionysius, are the vicissitudes of divine
events!' Dionysius answered, 'Either the
Deity
suffers, or
He sympathizes with the
Sufferer.'
And that Sufferer, accord-
ing to tradition recorded by Michael Syncellus, of Jerusalem,
he declared to be 'the unknown God,' for whose sufferings all
nature was darkened and convulsed." ("Hales," volume 3,
page 230.)
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
21
7. No one under sixty years of age could be a member of
the court of the Areopagites. "The court had jurisdiction in
criminal and political cases, as well as those affecting public
morals." (See Nelson's "Teachers' Testament," note.)
Lesson 7 — Paul at Corinth
FEBRUARY 17, 1917
DAILY STUDY OUTLINE
Sabbath
Read the lesson scripture.
Sunday
Paul preaching at Corinth; Timofhy
and Silas join him
Rues. 1-5
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 243-250.
Monday
Preaching to the get
iles; before
the governor
Ques. 6-11
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 251-254.
Tuesday
Paul goes from city to city visiting
the believers
Ques. 12-15
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 255-268.
AVednesday ..Apollos, Aquila, and Priscilla
Ques. 16-18
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 269-280.
Thursday ...Lessons for us.
Friday
Review the lesson.
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Acts 18: 1-28.
MEMORY Wasp: "I am with thee, and no Man shall set on
thee to hurt thel." Acts 18: 10.
The Narrative
1.
What important city did Paul visit on leaving
Athens? Acts 18: 1. Note 1.
2.
Whom did he find here? With whom did he abide?
What was their occupation? What did Paul do? Verses
2, 3. Note 2.
3.
While at Corinth, what did Paul do on the Sabbath?
How long did he remain there? Verses 4, 11.
4.
Who came to assist Paul in his labors at this time?
What testimony did Paul bear? Verse 5. Compare chap-
ter 17: 15. Note 3.
5.
How did the people receive the preaching of Paul?
What solemn reply did he make to the opposers? For
whom did he now prepare to labor especially? Acts 18: 6.
Compare chapter 13 : 46; 28 : 27, 28.
6.
At whose house in Corinth did Paul meet with the
gentiles? Acts 18: 7.
7.
Who embraced the truth of the gospel preached by
the apostle? Verse 8.
22
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
8.
What encouragement was given him to continue
his labors? Memorize the words of the Lord spoken to
him. Verses 9, 10.
9.
Before whom was Paul brought? What was the
charge made against him? Verses 12, 13. Note 4.
10.
What did the governor say about the case? How
did he treat Paul's accusers? Verses 14-16. Note 5.
11.
How was Sosthenes treated by the Greeks? What
was the governor's attitude concerning this matter?
Verse 17.
12.
Where did Paul now go? Who accompanied him?
In what important city did he land? What did he do ?
Verses 18, 19.
13.
Where did Paul go from Ephesus? What cheering
promise did he make the church before his departure for
Csarea? Verses 20, 21.
14.
After a short visit with the church at Caesarea,
where did Paul go? Verse 22. Note 6.
15.
Leaving Antioch on his third missionary tour, what
churches did he visit? Verse 23.
16.
What noted man came to Ephesus about this time?
Where was Apollos born? What is said of his knowledge
of the Scriptures? What baptism only did he know?
Verses 24, 25. Note 7.
17.
Who is mentioned as among those who heard him
speak in the synagogue? What did Aquila and Priscilla
do? Verse 26.
18.
To what place did Apollos go? How was the confi-
dence of the brethren in him shown? What results at-
tended his work? Verses 27, 28.
Lessons for Us
1.
It is honorable to labor with our hands. Verse 3.
2.
We should always be ready to lay down our own
plans at God's call. Note 8.
3.
Open opposition from the enemy may indicate that
there are some who are looking for light. Verses 9, 10.
4.
Although we may have a good understanding of the
Scriptures, there may be more light for us. Verses 24, 25.
5.
The greatest qualification of a teacher is to be teach-
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
23
able. Apollos is a good example of this. He was willing
to receive more light.
6. Any consecrated person in the church, however hum-
ble, may be used in bringing additional light to those who
may be regarded as great teachers. Verse 26.
Notes
1.
Paul visited Corinth three times. About
A. D.
53 he
spent a year and a half here (Acts 18: 11), during which time
he probably wrote the two epistles to the Thessalonians; then
between 54 and 57 (1 Cor. 16: 7; 2 Cot. 12: 13, 14; 13: 1),
and the three winter months from 57 to 58, during which he
wrote the epistle to the Romans. Acts 20: 2, 3. Compare 1
Cor. 16: 6; Rom. 16: 1.
2.
Aquila and Priscilla were refugees from Rome, having
fled from Italy to the Grecian metropolis after the decree of
Claudius in
A. D.
32, expelling all the Jews from Rome.
"He [Paul] wrote two epistles to the Christians at Corinth.
The site of this once proud and dissolute city is now occupied
by the miserable little village of Gortho.' —"Cyclopedia of
Religious Knowledge," page 218.
3.
"The remarkable word which is used to describe the
`pressure'
which he experienced at this moment in the course
of his teaching at Corinth, is the same which is employed of
our Lord Himself in a solemn passage of the Gospels (Luke
12: 50) when
He
says, 'I have a baptism to be baptized with;
and how am I
straitened
till it be accomplished!'
"—"Life and
Epistles of the Apostle Paul," Conybeare and Howson, page
339.
4.
Gallio was "the adopted name of Marcus Annus
Novatus, son of M. Annmus Seneca of Cordova in Spain,
brother of the philosopher L. Annmug Seneca, and uncle of
the poet Lucan. He was a man of fine character and culture,
and proconsul of Achaia during Paul's first visit to Corinth
(after 49
A. D.)
and fell a victim to Nero's cruelty in 66
A. D."
(Standard Bible Dictionary.)
5.
Gallio doubtless understood the real reasons for their op-
position to Paul, and seeing that there was no Roman law
violated, he did not see fit to waste time on religious techni-
calities, so drove them from his court. His act no doubt
greatly enraged his accusers.
6.
The journey, from Cmsarea to Jerusalem is related very
briefly indeed. Luke simply says, "He Went up and saluted
the church." No disputes or contentions are mentioned. We
are not informed whether or not he arrived in time for the
feast, though it is quite probable that he did.
7.
"The work of the believers had been given them by God.
By their faithful adherence to the truth they were to give to
24
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
others the light which they had received.• The apostle bade
them not to become weary in well-doing, and pointed them
to his own example of diligence in temporal matters while
laboring with untiring zeal in the cause of Christ. He re-
proved those who had given themselves up to sloth and aimless
excitement, and directed that 'with quietness they work, and
eat their own bread.' He also enjoined upon the church to
separate from their fellowship any one who should persist in
disregarding the instruction given by God's ministers. 'Yet,'
he added, 'count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a
brother.'"—"The Acts of the Apostles," pages 267, 268.
8. "As he [Paul] was planning to leave the city for a more
promising field, and seeking earnestly to understand his duty,
the Lord appeared to him in a vision, and said, 'Be not afraid,
but speak, and hold not thy peace: for I am with thee, and no
man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I ,have much people
in this city.' "—
Id.,
page 250.
Lesson
8 --
Paul at Ephesus
FEBRUARY 24, 1917
DAILY STUDY OUTLINE
Sabbath
Read the lesson scripture.
Sunday
Paul preaching at Ephesus
Ques. 1-3
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 281-283.
Monday
The believers receive the Holy Spirit.Ques. 4-7
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 284,287.
Tuesday
Manifestation of divine power; sor-
cery practiced by apostate Jews....Ques. 8-11
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 287-290.
Wednesday
The word of God grew mightily
Ques. 12-14
Thursday
Lessons for us.
Friday
Review the' lesson.
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Acts 19: 1-20.
MEMORY VERSE "And many that believed came, and con-
fessed, and showed their deeds." Acts 19: 18.
The Narrative
•
1. When Paul arrived at Ephesus, whom did he find?
What searching question did he ask? What answer did
the disciples make? Acts 19: 1, 2. Note 1.
2.
What further question did the apdStle ask? How
did the disciples answer? Verse 3.
3.
What explanation did Paul give them concerning
the baptism of John? When they understood the matter
more fully, what did they do? Verses 4, 5.
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
25
4.
As they followed the further light set before them
by the apostle, how did the Lord manifest His approval?
To how many men did this rich experience come?
Verses 6,
7.
5.
How long did Paul continue his labor in the syna-
gogue? In what work did he engage? Verse 8.
6.
How did his preaching affect some? What did Paul
therefore do? Verse 9. Note 2.
7.
How long did Paul continue his work? What was
the result? Verse 10.
8.
What manifestation of divine power was seen in
the work of the apostle? Verses 11, 12. Note 3.
9.
How did the enemy seek to bring reproach upon the
name of Jesus? Verses 13, 14. Note 4.
10.
How did this opposition result? Verses 15, 16.
11.
To what extent was this known? How was the
truth advanced? Verse 17. Note 5.
12.
How did those who were converted show that the
gospel had a deep hold in their lives? Verse 18.
13.
To what had they been addicted? What did they
do? What was the value of the books destroyed? Verse
19. Note 6.
14.
What power wrought this mighty change? Verse 20.
Lessons for Us
1.
To know that one has received the Holy Spirit is
essential in Christian experience. Verses 1, 2.
2.
Baptism and the preparation for it are of the great-
est importance. Vetses 3-5.
3.
Manifestations of a spirit from above and a spirit
from beneath are both sometimes witnessed. Verses 11-16.
4.
The love for novels and all impure literature is de-
stroyed in the life of a true Christian. Verses 19, 20.
Notes
1. "When John the Baptist was preaching, many, in their
visits to Jerusalem at the annual feasts, had gone out to the
banks of the Jordan to listen to him. There they had heard
Jesus proclaimed as the Promised One, and they had carried
the tidings to all parts of the world. Thus had. Providence
prepared the way for the labors of the apostles.
26
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
"On his arrival at Ephesus, Paul found twelve brethren,
who, like Apollos, had been disciples of John the Baptist, and
like him had gained some knowledge of the mission of Christ."
—"The Acts of the Apostles," pages 281, 282.
2.
Tyrannus was a "sophist or rhetorician of Ephesus, who
kept one of those schools of philosophy and eloquence so
common at that period." ("Popular and Critical Encyclo-
pedia.")
"This school `was probably a lecture room, which, as the
private property of the owner, was lent or let to the apostles.'
Ramsay suggests that it was the lecture room used by the
professors of rhetoric and philosophy a part of the day; and
Paul at other hours."—"Peloubet's Notes," 1909.
3.
"These manifestations of supernatural power were far
more potent than had ever before been witnessed in Ephesus,
and were of such a character that they could not be imitated
by the skill of the juggler or the enchantments of the sorcerer.
As these miracles were wrought in the name of Jesus of
Nazareth, the people had opportunity to see that the God of
heaven was more powerful than the magicians who were wor-
shipers of the goddess Diana. Thus the Lord exalted His
servant, even before the idolaters themselves, immeasurably
above the most powerful and favored of the magicians."—
"The Acts of the Apostles," page 287.
4.
Exorcism was a belief in demoniacal possessions. In
some instances the gift was regarded as divine. "The epithet
applied to these exorcists indicates that they were traveling
mountebanks, who, beside skill in medicine, pretended to the
knowledge of magic." ("Popular and Critical Encyclopedia.")
5.
"And the man in whom the_ evil spirit was leaped on
them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so
that they fled out of that house naked and wounded."
"Thus unmistakable proof was given of the sacredness of
the name of Christ, and the peril which they incurred who
should invoke it without faith in the divinity of the Saviour's
mission. 'Fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord
Jesus was magnified.' "—"The Acts of the Apostles," page
288.
6.
Would that the gospel to-day might get such a hold in
the lives of many as to lead them to destroy the cheaper
fiction which is a curse to their homes! "They did not sell
them [the books] for others to use, as they might have done,
but destroyed the instruments of evil at great cost, reckoning
at fifty thousand pieces of silver, Latin,
denarii;
Greek,
drachmas,
worth about sixteen cents each,. or $8,000 in all.
But in those days a drachma was equivalent to a day's wage,
so that the sum was equivalent to $50,000 to $100,000 in our
time." ("Peloubet's Notes," 1909.)
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
27
Lesson
9
— The Gospel Opposed at Ephesus
MARCH 3, 1917
DAILY STUDY OUTLINE
Sabbath
Read the lesson scripture.
Sunday
Paul plans another journey; Timo-
thy and Erastus sent to Mace-
donia
Ques. 1,2
Monday
Paul's encounter with Demetrius.... Ques. 3-0
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 291-293.
Tuesday
The whole city of Ephesus in an up-
roar
Ques. 7-10
Wednesday .The town clerk meets the citizens
on their own ground
Ques. 11-16
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 294-297.
Thursday ...Lessons for us.
Friday
Review the lesson.
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Acts 19: 21-41.
MEMORY VERSE:
"Thou shalt not make unto -thee any
graven image." Ex. 20: 4.
The Narrative
1.
What place did Paul plan to visit after leaving
Ephesus? What was his final destination? After visit-
ing Jerusalem, where did he intend to go? Acts 19: 21.
2.
Whom did he send ahead to Macedonia? Where did
he himself remain? Verse 22. Compare Rom. 15: 24-28.
Note 1.
3.
What arose at this time? Who instigated the trou-
ble? What was his occupation? Whom did he gather to-
gether? What was the basis of his appeal to them?
Acts 19: 23-25. Note 2.
4.
How great did Demetrius say was the influence of
Paul's teaching? Verse 26.
5.
What did he say was in danger? What effect did
he say his teaching would have on the worship of Diana?
Verse 27. Note 3.
6.
How did the words of Demetrius affect the people?
How did they manifest their zeal? How extensive was
the agitation? Verses 28, 29.
7.
What did Paul decide to do? How did the disciples
and the better class of people restrain him? Verses 30.
31. Note 4.
8.
How is the confusion of the mob described?
Verse 32.
•••
28
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
9.
Who was put forth by the Jews as a spokesman?
Verse 33. Note 5.
10.
What description is given of the uproar that con-
tinued? Verse 34.
11.
'Who quieted the mob? What did he say? Believ-
ing, as they claimed, that the image of Diana fell from
heaven, what ought they to do? Verses 35, 36.
12.
What was the town clerk's testimony concerning
Paul and his companions? Verse 37. Note 6.
13.
What suggestion did he make as to the proper way
to settle a grievance. Verses 38, 39.
14.
What danger did he say threatened them for the
day's proceedings? Verse 40.
15.
What did the town clerk then do? Verse 41.
16.
How does Paul speak of this experience at Ephesus?
1 Cor. 15:32.
Lessons for Us
1.
Interference with a secular, money-making scheme
often creates opposition. Acts 19: 23-27.
2.
Those who are certain they are right will not employ
rash methods. Verse 36. Note 7.
3.
The servants of the state frequently see the principle
of right more clearly than those blinded by religious
prejudices. Verses 38-40.
4.
The Lord will protect His servants in the midst of
danger and tumult.
Notes
1.
"The first epistle of Paul to the Corinthians was written
during the apostle's long sojourn in Ephesus (1 Cor. 16: 8,
9, 19; Acts 19), probably early in A. D. 57."—"A Dictionary
of the Bible," Davis.
2.
Diana was "the Roman goddess of the moon, and of
field and woods, and of all forms of life and activity which
were supposed to be influenced by the moon. Her image was
supposed to have fallen from heaven."
(Id.)
Her worship
was nature worship with all its abominations.
3.
"The scale on which the temple was erected was mag-
nificently extensive. It was 425 feet in length and 220 in
breadth, and the columns were 60 feet high. The number
of columns was 127, each of them the gift of a king; and
36 of them were enriched with ornament and color. The
folding doors were of cypress wood; the part which was not
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
29
open to the sky was roofed over with cedar; and the stair-
case was formed of the wood of one single vine from the is-
land of Cyprus. The value and_ fame of the temple were en-.
hanced by its being the treasury where a large portion of the
wealth of western Asia was stored up. It is probable there
was no religious building in the world in which was concen-
trated a greater amount of admiration, enthusiasm, and
superstition."—"Life and Epistles of the Apostle Paul,"
Conybeare and Howson, pages 465, 466.
4.
The Revised Version reads, "And certain also of the
Asiarchs, being his friends." These were the officers having
charge of the Roman province of Asia; and their course indi-
cates that the better class of people had no sympathy with the
mob, and were really Paul's friends.
5.
"The purpose of this was most likely to save the Jews
from being mixed up with the Christians in the vengeance
of the people. He may or may not have been the same as
Alexander the coppersmith."—"Standard Bible Dictionary."
6.
"Coins show that in the several cities of Asia Minor the
town clerk presided in popular assemblies, and was the vir-
tual, or in some cases the actual, head of the municipal gov-
ernment."—"A Dictionary of the Bible," Davis.
7.
If the image of Diana really had a supernatural origin
and fell down from Jupiter, how could she be deposed from
her magnificence? Could not Jupiter, the king of gods, take
care of his own?
Lesson 10 — Paul's Visit to Macedonia
MARCH 10, 1917
DAILY STUDY OUTLINE
Sabbath
Read the lesson scripture.
Sunday
Paul visits Macedonia and Greece.... sues. 1-4
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 389-390.
Monday
Waiting at Troas for Paul
Ques. 5, 6
Tuesday
X farewell meeting
Ques. 7-11
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 391,392.
Wednesday ..Paul meets his companions
Qum 12-15
Thursday ...Lessons for us.
Friday
Review the lesson.
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Acts 20: 1-16.
MEMORY VERSE: "This is My commandment, that ye love
one another, as I have loved you." John 15: 12.
The Narrative
1.
To what region did Paul go on leaving Ephesus?
Acts 20: 1. Compare 2 Cor. 2: 12, 13. Note 1.
2.
What is the brief record of his labors in Mace-
30
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
donia? To what country did he then go? Acts 20: 2.
Note 2.
3.
In writing of his labors in this region, what men-
tion does Paul make of his trials? 2 Cor. 7: 5-7.
4.
How long did the apostle remain at Corinth? For
what reason did he change his route on his return? Acts
20:3.
5.
Who accompanied him on his return journey to
Jerusalem? Having left Paul behind, at what place did
they wait for him? Verses 4, 5.
6.
At what time did Paul sail from Philippi? How
long was he in reaching Troas? Verse 6. Compare Acts
16:11. Note 3.
7.
On what day of the week was the farewell meeting
held?
,
To what time did Paul continue his speech? Acts
20: 7. Note 4.
8.
Where was the meeting held? What further evi-
dence have we that this was an evening meeting?
Verse 8.
9.
While Paul was preaching, what serious accident
occurred? Verse 9.
10.
What did Paul do? What did he say? Verses
10, 12.
11.
How was the rest of the night spent? At daybreak,
what did Paul do? Verse 11.
12.
What were Paul's companions doing while he was
preaching? What was Paul's plan for reaching Assos?
Verse 13. Note 5.
13.
Leaving Assos, what places did the apostles reach
during the next few days? Verses 14, 15.
14.
What did Paul determine to do? Why was he in
haste? Verse 16.
15.
What gifts was Nul bearing to the believers in
Judea? 1 Cor. 16: 1-4. Note 6.
Lessons for Us
1.
The plots of the enemies of the truth are often
frustrated. Acts 20: 3.
2.
We should pay regard to the customs of the• people
when they do not conflict with right principles. Paul
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
31
doubtless regarded some of the feasts as an opportunity
to preach to the people a more complete
,
gospel.
3.
We should be very diligent in the work of the Mas-
ter. Paul sent the boat with his companions on ahead,
thus giving him a few hours _longer for labor at Troas.
Verse 13.
4.
The same power should attend the gospel now as in
the day of Paul. Verses 9-12. Read Matt. 10 : 7, 8 ; Luke
10: 17-19. Note 7. •
Notes
1.
"From Ephesus Paul set forth on another missionary
tour, during which he hoped to visit once more the scenes of
his former labors in Europe. Tarrying for a time at Troas,
`to preach Christ's gospel,' he found some who were ready
to listen to his message. 'A door was opened unto me of the
Lord,' he afterward declared of his labors in this place. But
successful as were his efforts at Troas, he could not remain
there long. 'The care of all the churches,' and particularly
of the church at Corinth, rested heavily on his heart. He
had hoped to meet Titus at Troas, and to learn from him how
the words of counsel and reproof sent to the Corinthian
brethren had been received; but in this he was disappointed."
—"The Acts of the Apostles," page 323.
2.
"In the autumn he [Paul] went to Greece and spent
three months there, chiefly in Corinth, where he had much
to do amid sickness and afflictions on every side, fightings
without and fears within (2 Cor. 4: 7-11; 7: 5, 6), in caring
for all the churches (2 Cor. 11: 28), and correcting wrong
conduct (2 Cor. 12: 20, 21; 13: 1, 2). It was, four or five
years since he had left them after a stay of a year and a
half."—"Peloubet's Notes," 1909. •
"After his mention of the affectionate parting between St.
Paul and the Christians of Ephesus, St. Luke tells us very
little of the apostle's proceedings during a period of nine or
ten months; — that is, from the early summer of the year
A. D. 57, to the spring of A. D. 58."—"Life and Epistles of the
Apostle Paul," Conybeare and Howson, page 478.
"From Macedonia, perhaps from Philippi, he wrote the
second epistle
to the Corinthians, which he soon followed in
person. From Corinth he wrote his
epistle
to the Romans, in
order to prepare the brethren of Rome for his personal
preaching. Phoebe, the deaconess, was probably the bearer
of the letter. But before going to Rome he visits Jerusa-
lem."—"Concise Cyclopedia of Religious Knowledge," page
715.
3.
"The voyage seemed to begin unfavorably. The space
between Neapolis •and Troas could easily be sailed over in
32
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
two days with a fair wind; and this was the time occupied,
when the apostle made the passage on his first coming to
Europe. On this occasion the same voyage occupied five days.
We have no means of deciding whether the ship's progress
was retarded by calms, or by contrary winds."—"Life and
Epistles of the Apostle Paul," Conybeare and Howson, page
591.
4.
"The labors of the early days of the week that was spent
at Troas are not related to us; but concerning the last day
we have a narrative which enters into details with all the
which succeeded the Jewish Sabbath. On the Sunday morn-
minuteness of one of the Gospel histories. It was the evening
ing the vessel was about to sail."—
Id.,
pages 592, 593.
5.
"And strength and peace were surely sought and ob-
tained by the apostle from the Redeemer, as he pursued his
lonely road that Sunday afternoon in spring, among the oak
woods and streams of Ida."—
Id.,
page 595.
6.
"The Macedonian Christians responded nobly to the ap-
peal which was made to them by St. Paul. . . . The Phi-
lippians are in the epistles what that poor woman is in the
Gospels, who placed two mites in the treasury. They gave
much, because they gave of their poverty; and wherever the
gospel is preached throughout the whole world, there shall
this liberality be told for a memorial of them."—
Id.,
pages
511, 512.
7.
"When as a people our works correspond to our profes-
sion, we shall see very much more accomplished than now.
When we have men as devoted as Elijah, and possessing the
faith which he had, we shall see that God will reveal Him-
self to us as He did to holy men of old."—"Gospel Workers,"
page 21, old edition.
Lesson 11 — Paul's Farewell Meeting with
the Elders at Ephesus
MARCH 17, 1917
DAILY STUDY OUTLINE
Sabbath
Read the lesson scripture.
Sunday
Paul calls a meeting of the elders
of the Ephesus church
Ques. 1-4
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 392,393.
Monday
Paul speaks of the trials and afflic-
tions which await him at Jerusa-
lem
Ques. 5-9
Tuesday
Exhorting the elders to guard the
flock of God
gars. 10-12
Wednesday ..Paul commends the believers to
God; parting seene
gales. 13-10
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 393-390.
Thursday ...Lessons for us.
Friday
Review the lesson.
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
33
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Acts 20: 17-38.
MEMORY VERSE: "Remember the words of the Lord Jesus,
how He said, It is more blessed to give than to receive." Acts
20:35.
The Narrative
1.
While the ship remained at Miletus, for whom did
Paul send? Acts 20: 17. Note 1.
2.
Of what did he remind the elders when they came?'
What did he say of his earnest service to the Lord?
Verses 18, 19.
3.
What could he say of his faithfulness in the minis-
try? Where had he taught? Verse 20. Note 2.
4.
What great gospel truths did he set forth to both
Jews and Greeks? Verse 21. Note 3.
5.
What uncertainty did the apostle express concern-
ing the things which awaited him at Jerusalem? What
depression of spirit did he seem to express? Verse 22.
Note 4.
6.
What revelation of trials and afflictions had been
given him through the Spirit? Verse 23.
7.
How did the prospect of trials and affliction before
him affect him? What account did he take of his life?
What was his only aim? Verse 24. Compare 2 Tim.
4: 6-8.
8.. What prospect did he hold before the elders of see-
ing them again? Acts 20: 25.
9.
From what did he say he was clear? What had
he not shunned? Verses 26, 27.
10.
What solemn exhortation did Paul give the elders?
What relation do elders sustain to the church? By whose
appointment? Verse 28.
11.
Against what danger did the apostle warn the eld-
ers? Verses 29, 30. Note 5.
12.
What further admonition does he give? Of what
did he remind them? Verse 31. Note 6.
13.
To what did he commend them? What is the word
of God able to do? Verse 32.
14.
What did Paul say he had not coveted? What had
he done to secure the necessities of life? Verses 33, 34.
Note 7.
34
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
15.
What example had he given them? What words of
Jesus were to be remembered? Verse 35.
16.
Describe the parting scene. Verses 36-38. Note 8.
Lessons for Us
1.
The gospel seed should be sown in tears. Verse 19.
2.
We should do personal work for sinners. Verse 20.
3.
All, even life itself, should be on the altar. Verses
22-24; Mark 8:35.
4.
The work of those chosen as teachers, or shepherds,
is to
"feed
the flock." Man lives by "every word that pro-
ceedeth out of the mouth of God." Matt. 4:
4.
5.
We should recognize the presiding presence of the
Holy Spirit in the deliberations of the church. Acts
20: 28.
6.
False shepherds will arise in the church. Verse 30.
7.
We should watch. Mark 13: 35-37.
8.
The word of God is our safeguard. Acts 20: 32.
Notes
1.
Ephesus was about thirty-six miles north from Miletus.
One can well imagine the joy of the elders on receiving a
summons to meet the one to whose instruction,
they had lis-
tened in the school of Tyrannus.
2.
Paul's work was not alone in speaking to the public con-
gregation, but he combined personal work from house to house.
We will do well to emphasize the methods of this great mis-
sionary, and practice them in our lives.
3.
Conybeare and Howson render this verse, "Testifying
both to Jews and gentiles
their
need of repentance towards
God, and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ." This would make
his work very personal in its application.
4.
Conybeare and Howson translate this text, "And now,
as for me, behold, I go to Jerusalem, in spirit foredoomed to
chains." The aged hero of the cross seemed to see the clouds
darkening, and great trials awaiting him. These things, with
the burden of all the churches, weighed greatly on his heart.
5.
Paul warns the elders against two dangers which threat-
ened the church,— wolves from without that would come in
to destroy, and those of their own number who would arise
in their midst, who would cast away their former faith, and
teach things contrary to the truth. In this way, division in
the church would be created, and these false brethren would
draw away some of the flock after them. Observe that these
disciples are drawn to these "false brethren" instead of to
Christ. This danger still threatens the church.
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
35
6.
"This space of three years may either be used (in the
Jewish mode of reckoning) for the two years and, upwards
which St. Paul spent at Ephesus; or, if we suppose .him to
speak to the Macedonians and Corinthians also (who were
present), it may refer to the whole time (about three years
and a 'half) since he came to reside at Ephesus in the autumn
of 54 A. —"Life and Epistles of the Apostle Paul," Cony-
beare and Howson, page 603, footnote.
7.
Paul, writing' to the Corinthian church, said, "I myself
was not burdensome to you; forgive me this wrong." 2 Cor.
12: 13. It was not best for the churches to be free of all
financial burden in this matter, neither could it have been for
the apostle, who must to some extent have been hindered in
the work of preaching, while earning a living.
8.
"Paul knelt down on the shore with all those who had
listened to him, and offered up a prayer to that God who was
founding His church in the midst of difficulties apparently in-
superable; and then followed an outbreak of natural grief,
which even Christian faith and resignation were not able to
restrain. They fell on the apostle's neck and clung to him,
and kissed him again and again, sorrowing most because of
his own foreboding announcement, that they should never be-
hold that countenance again, on which they had often gazed
with reverence and love. But no long time could be devoted
to the grief of separation. The wind .was fair, and the vessel
must depart. They accompanied the apostle to the edge of
the water. The Christian brethren were torn away from the
embrace of their friends; and the ship sailed out into the open
sea, while the presbyters prepared for their weary and mel-
ancholy return to Ephesus.
Id.,
pages 603, 604.
,Lesson 12 — Paul's Further Ministry
MARCH 24, 1917
DAILY STUDY OUTLINE
„Sabbath
Read the lesson scripture.
Sunday
Paul continues his journey to Jeru-
salem
Ques. 1-4
"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 396-39S.
Monday
Paul entertained in the home of
Philip; prophecy of Agabus
Ques. 5-7
Tuesday
Ills friends besought him not to go
to Jerusalem
,Ques. 8-10
Wednesday ..Arrives at Jerusalem
Ques. 11-13
Thursday ...Lessons for us.
Friday
Review the lesson.
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Acts 21: 1-17.
MEMORY. VERSE: "God forbid that I should glory, save in the
cross of our Lord Jesus Christ." Gal. 6: 14.
36
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
The Narrative
1.
Having bidden adieu to the brethren and sailed
from Miletus, what was Paul's route thereafter? Where •
did he finally land? What places were passed between
Miletus and Tyre? At what place did they change ship?
Acts 21: 1-3. Note 1.
2.
How long did Paul remain at Tyre? What counsel
of the Spirit was given him through some of the believers
here? Verse 4. Note 2.
3.
Who accompanied Paul as he left Tyre? How far
did they go with him? What scene similar to the fare-
well at Miletus was enacted on the seashore? Having
bidden farewell, what did each company do? Verses 5, 6.
Note 3.
4.
Leaving Tyre, at what place did Paul and his com-
pany stop? How long did they remain? Verse 7. Note 4.
5.
Leaving Ptolemais, to what place did they go?
With whom did they lodge? What was the work of
Philip? What is said concerning his family? Verses 8, 9.
Note 5.
6.
What is said of the time Paul and his companions
remained at the home of Philip? What prophet came
from Jerusalem? Verse 10. Note 6.
7.
In what way did Agabus illustrate his prophecy?
What explanation did he make concerning his action?
Verse 11. Note 7.
8.
On hearing the message of Agabus, what did the
companions and friends of Paul do? Verse 12.
9.
What was Paul's reply to their entreaties? Verse
13. Note 8.
10.
How did his companions and friends finally express
their resignation? Why? Verse 14.
11.
To what place did Paul and his company now de-
part? Verse 15.
12.
Who accompanied them to Jerusalem? Verse 16.
Note 9.
13.
On arriving at Jerusalem, how were Paul and his
company received? Verse 17. Note 10.
38
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
reality than mere words can do, and which was made familiar
to the Jews of old by the practice of the Hebrew prophets. As
Isaiah (chapter 20) loosed the sackcloth from nis loins, and
put off his shoes from his feet, to dee;are how the Egyptian
captives should be led away into Assyria naked and barefoot,
— or as the girdle of Jeremiah (chapter 13 ) , in its strength
and its decay, was made a type of the people of Israel in their
privilege and their fall,— Agabus, in like manner, using the
imagery of action, took the girdle of St. Paul, and fastened
it around his own hands and feet, and said, 'Thus saith the
Holy Ghost: So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man to
whom this girdle belongs, and they shall deliver him into the
hands of the gentiles.' "—"Life and Epistles of the Apostle
Paul," Conybeare and Howson, pages 615, 616.
8.
Though Paul's heart was moved and almost broken by
the tears, sorrow, and entreaties of his companions and
friends at the prospect of imprisonment and danger before
him, he was unwavering in his purpose, seeing victory through
all the hindrances which were before him.
9.
"Some of the Christians
o
Csarea went along with
them, not merely, as it would seem, to show their respect and
sympathy for the apostolic company, but to secure their com-
fort on arriving, by taking him to the house of Mnason, a
native of Cyprus, who had been long ago converted to Chris-
tianity, possibly during the life of our Lord Himself, and
who may have been one of those Cyprian Jews who first made
the gospel known to the Greeks at Antioch."—
Id.,
page 617.
10.
This was Paul's last visit to Jerusalem. Doubtless
many things here stirred his memory. He moved among com-
paratively few friends, and many enemies.
Lesson 13 — The Review
MARCH 31, 1917
DAILY STUDY OUTLINE
Sabbath
Acts 15
Tuesday ....Acts is
Sunday
Acts 16
Wednesday ..Acts 19
Monday
Acts 17
Thursday ...Acts 20
Friday
Acts 2J
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Acts 15: 1 to 21: 17.
MEMORY VERSE: Review the memory, verses for the quarter.
The questions here asked on each chapter are for the
student's personal study. The teacher will naturally se-
lect the main points for class recitation.